Aerones, a global leader in robotic solutions for wind turbine maintenance, has achieved a significant milestone with the successful completion of its offshore technology tests in Scotland. This achievement marks the culmination of years of research, development, and multiple technological iterations, firmly positioning Aerones at the forefront of offshore wind turbine inspection and repair solutions. With this breakthrough, Aerones now offers a technologically and financially viable solution for offshore turbine maintenance, building on the success of its proven onshore technologies.
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Innovative Technology Deployed
During the tests, Aerones deployed its advanced submersible winch system, enabling the company’s cutting-edge robots to conduct crucial inspections and repairs on offshore wind turbines. The system, featuring submersible anchors, was specifically developed over the past year to securely elevate, position, and operate the robots in challenging offshore environments.
Partially funded by the European Union’s BLUE project, the testing was conducted at the Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Catapult facility near Levenmouth, Scotland, on October 7-8, 2024. This project is supported by a grant of EUR 1.7M from the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund, with a total budget of EUR 2.5M. Green Marine supported the deployment by providing vessels to position the anchors around the turbine tower and transport the winches to the turbine platform. With the winches in place, Aerones’ robots were elevated to inspect the turbine blades. The entire test was completed in a single day, delivering exceptional results.
Overcoming Offshore Challenges
Offshore wind turbine maintenance presents unique challenges, including stronger winds, unpredictable waves, and rapidly changing weather conditions—factors that add complexity compared to onshore operations. Aerones’ submersible winch technology is specifically designed to overcome these obstacles, allowing robots to perform their tasks safely and efficiently in harsh marine environments.
“We are thrilled to see our technology succeed in offshore conditions”, said Dainis Kruze, CEO of Aerones. ”I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to our engineers and everyone involved in this achievement. Great things are made by great people, and the Aerones team is the most incredible group I’ve had the pleasure of working with. This milestone is a game-changer, not just for our company but for the entire wind energy industry. Our mission has always been to deliver the perfect combination of speed, quality, and reliability, and today we’re one step closer to making that a reality”, Kruze added. John Walker, Engineering Manager, Development & Operations at ORE Catapult said:
“Innovation in inspection and repair technologies for the offshore wind sector will be a critical enabler of the global expansion in the renewable sector in the coming years. It presents a global opportunity for this type of innovative robotic solution, in this case initially developed for onshore wind installations, to be brought to market for the offshore wind sector.”
A Major Advancement for the Industry
Aerones’ successful offshore tests represent a critical advancement for the wind energy sector, especially as global demand increasingly shifts toward renewable energy sources. The ability to maintain and repair turbines in remote and challenging environments is essential for improving the efficiency and longevity of offshore wind farms.
With the successful tests at ORE Catapult now complete, Aerones’ next objective is to begin offering its services for commercial offshore wind turbines.
About Aerones
Aerones is the world’s leading provider of robotic solutions for wind turbine inspections, maintenance, and repairs. The company’s services include autonomous drone visual inspections, internal blade inspections, advanced lightning protection system checks, turbine tower and blade cleaning, and blade leading-edge erosion repairs. These tasks are performed by state-of-the-art robots operated remotely by skilled technicians, ensuring the highest standards of safety, precision, and efficiency.
For media inquiries:
Edgars Dudko
Head of Marketing | Aerones
+371 27742646
